Introduction:

Watermelon Citrullus lanatus (Thumb.) is native to the dry areas in tropical and sub-tropical Africa south of the equator.

Although watermelon is native to central Africa, it was first grown by ancient Egyptians (Egyptians grew watermelons more than 5,000 years ago).

The uses for the watermelon at this time included a source for water (watermelons are comprised of 90% water), staple food, animal feed, and fermentation for alcohol production.

The crop can survive the desert climate when groundwater is available.